I had worn out a pair of high gaiters a couple of seasons ago and started using these low gaiters. They are super lightweight and are sufficient for summer climbing when you are not post-holing all the time. They are excellent for lightweight mountaineering.

They are not gore-tex but I never had problem with their water-proof-ness. I use them on glaciers all the time. As long as the boots are water proof, the gaiters are not a problem. If the boots are not water proof, the gaiters are the least of your concern.

I have used these crampons on about 20 climbs so far, including Rainier, Hood, Baker, Little Tahoma, even more technicl Mt Jefferson Jeff Park glacier route. I haven't had any problems with them. I have used Stubai and CAMP lightweight crampons too but still love Grivel. I removed the antibott plates to save weight. No they are not designed to climb on steep ice. Get a pair of G12 or G14 for that purpose.

I have used it for one season and love it. I bought a second one for my wife. My only complaint is that it's a bit awkward to adjust the length. If you and your partner differ a lot in size, that might be an issue.

Perefect if you are travelling on low angle snow (<45 degrees) and don't want to haul a heavy axe like BD Raven. I have almost never used my Raven every since I got this one. My axe always draws attention from the group for its lightness.

I have owned it for one season and have worn it to the top of Jefferson, Hood, Rainier, Baker, Shuksan, Eldorado, little T and some other local peaks. They won't weigh your feet down. If you want something warmer, however, e.g. Mt Rainier in the winter/spring, I'd recommend La Sportiva Glacier.

My only complaints is these boots don't stand much abuse. Mine have already shown signs of wear and tear after one season. I had to glue the rands on both boots. I have been wearing them pretty much every weekend since spring though.

I have used similar products including Petzl Laser Sonic and Simond. BD express is the fastest to get in. The length of the handle is just perfect. No fumbling.

Pro: feather light. 23g is THE lightest biner you can find on the market today.

Con: clearance is a little low. Not really a con though. Considering the size, that's expected.

It's an ideal biner for clipping to the pro end. I do not recommend using it on the rope end though. I also do not recommend using it on the snow when you have to handle the gears wearing gloves.